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From the Massachusetts State House to Pittsburgh: A Boston Leader Heads to PowerShift

PowerShift 2013, the largest convergence of diverse, informed, climate-focused youth on the planet takes place October 18th, 2013. ACE is thrilled to be sending youth climate leaders from all over the country to this epic event to hone skills like organizing, campaigning and digital storytelling.

ACE believes that youth are essential to climate solutions that meet the urgency and magnitude of the problem. This often marginalized group is inherently the most connected, diverse, digitally-savvy generation ever to live.

ACE is working to elevate the voices of this generation through transformative leadership opportunities like PowerShift. ACE youth climate leaders bring a rich and diverse set of talents, skills and passions. From artists to makers, and innovators to musicians, these young people are leaving their mark on the movement in a fresh and unique way.

Nadia Issa is one of ACE's top youth climate leaders hailing from Massachusetts. Take a minute to get to know her:

Born in 1997, in Framingham Massachusetts, Boston native Nadia Issa is an artist who majors in dance, but continues expression through many other arts including: singing, poetry, playing the ukulele, painting, drawing and acting. Enrolled in Boston Arts Academy, a performing arts high school located in the Fenway neighborhood, she enjoys taking part in many performances and dance projects.

Dedication and Results to Climate Solutions:Nadia spends a lot of time volunteering, public speaking on issues, and taking part in activism. Her public speech on the issue of recycling at the Massachusetts State House recently got the attention of City Councilmen, Felix Arroyo. He and his team proceeded to set up a meeting with Nadia to established a single-stream recycling program for the Boston Public School system---a huge win.

Leadership:Nadia has taken part in youth rallies focused on climate change and has been highly involved with ACE in Boston. Her school's Eco club recently elevated her to a leadership position of this after-school group and she has been the dance department representative for the past two years.

Passion & Values:Nadia believes that "time is of the essence," and with that as a mantra in her head she will continue to strive for climate change solutions.

Nadia says that, "Taking part in PowerShift will be an enriching and empowering experience both physically and mentally." She "can't wait to see the power of youth across the country acting together toward Climate Justice!" Nadia told us she's, "also really excited about building connections at PowerShift, learning new ideas and traveling outside of her home-base to a new place."

Stay tuned to Hot & Bothered to hear about Nadia's adventures at PowerShift and her plans to further spark climate action in Boston upon her return.

Leah joined ACE in 2009 and is currently serving as Deputy Director. She brings with her more than 12 years of experience in the nonprofit sector as a relationship-builder, communicator and strategic problem solver. She manages ACE’s program, campaign, communications, media, and marketing strategy.